I arrived at Ziegels Union Church one evening in mid-September. I was here for an interview with the Consistory but I turned up early in order to spend some time poking around the church. As I stood in the darkening sanctuary, I was filled with a sense of coming home, even though I had never visited before.

Generally speaking churches have a great deal in common; crosses, candles, pulpits and pews. Yet every one I have ever entered has its own unique ambiance. The sanctuary at Ziegels glows with its history. The stained glass honors the beauty of God’s sacred word. It is clear to see that past traditions are held dear, even as accommodations for a growing faith have been made. Even as a stranger, I knew the place.

The next few months are filled with times when all of us want to be able to experience that feeling of arriving at a place where we are not only welcomed, but eagerly anticipated with open arms. The holidays are a wonderful time to visit to see if you, like me, feel at home here.